The Best Outdoor Heating Reviews

This depends on the size of the area you are wanting to heat. Power is measured in BTUs for ga heaters and the higher the BTUs, the bigger the area that can be heated. For example, a 200 square foot area would require a 6,000 BTU heater, 400 square foot a 10,000 BTU heater and 600 square foot we’d recommend a 14,000 BTU heater. Electrical heaters measure power output in watts.

The type of patio heater that will suit depends on the size of the area you are wanting to heat, the power source available (electricity, natural gas or propane gas), where you want to position the heater whether it is an open or closed area and whether you will want to move the heater. The choices you have include freestanding or floor heaters, wall mounted heaters, hanging heaters from the ceiling or tabletop heaters. Outdoor heaters are continuing to become more stylish and there are many options that will help you find something to suit the look and feel you want for your patio and outdoor entertaining space. Our detailed patio heater buying guide will help you choose what will best suit you.

Outdoor heaters run on electricity, gas (propane which you buy in tanks or natural gas connected to your gas line) or wood. Some solar heating is also available. So the kind of heater you choose will depend on the power source you have available in the area you want to heat. Safety precautions need to be considered for each heater type ensuring they are positioned on even ground and away from and hazards such as trees and furniture. Propane gas heaters should not be used in enclosed areas due to the buildup of carbon monoxide which can cause poisoning and death.

The amount of heating that will help keep your per warm outdoors will depend on its breed and how well adapted it is to cool temperatures. There are heated doghouses, insulation, heated pet mats, pet jackets and shoes and heating lamps that will help. Some of these options rely on electrical power so need power to the area where your pet sleeps.  Consider the safety features which will ensure your pet doesn’t overheat, burn itself on heaters or bite through cables. Heated water bowls are a great option to prevent water from freezing over and ensure your pet stays hydrated in the cold. 

Yes, your heater can generally get wet however storing it out of the rain or snow and covered will help to prolong the life of your outdoor heater. Electrical heaters should not be left in the rain. Check the specific details of the manufacturer’s instructions for their recommended requirements so you do not void the warranty. We’ll also note any specific requirements for the models which we review in each category. Some outdoor heating models have the option to purchase a cover that is specific to a particular model and these create the best fit to protect your heater against the elements.

Yes as patio heaters are made for outdoor spaces, they can be used on timber decks but do not leave them unattended and make sure they are kept on a flat surface. Do not use wood fired heaters that can produce embers on timber decks.

For patio heaters, our recommendation is that electrical heaters which are hardwired and mounted on the wall or ceiling are the safest option for children as they are out of reach. They won’t be able to walk into them or trip over power cords both which create a risk of injury. For backyard and garden heaters, children are likely to be intrigued with fire and naked flames (who isn’t!) so you’ll need to ensure extra supervision if you go with these options. Don’t leave children unsupervised around any heating.